After watching both of Saturday’s divisional playoff games we came away with even more respect for the job that the Giants defensive tackle rotation, anchored by unrestricted free agent Linval Joseph, did this season in stopping the run.

Marshawn Lynch rampaged through the Saints for 140 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-sealing, fourth-quarter 31-yard romp, in the Seahawks’ 23-15 victory.

The Giants allowed just two 100-yard rushers this season – DeAngelo Williams (Panthers) and Ryan Mathews (Chargers) – both of whom are playing in today’s games – and ranked 14th in the NFL in run defense, allowing 108.9 yards per game.

Big Blue, which finished eighth in total defense, held Lynch to a just 47 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries in a 23-0 loss at MetLife Stadium on Dec. 15th.

All of this brings us back to Joseph. At 25 and in the prime of his year, he’ll command at least $35 to $40 million (former Giants defensive tackle Barry Coffield signed a six-year, $36-million deal with Washington in 2011) on the open market this offseason. The Giants have yet another tough decision to make.

The team feels second-year pro Johnathan Hankins can fill the void and he has the look of a good one. But the Giants shouldn’t just give up on Joseph without a fight.

Their defensive tackle rotation also included Cullen Jenkins, who may be moved permanently to defensive end, and veteran Mike Patterson, who is a free agent as well. Veteran Shaun Rogers finished the year on injured reserve and his future is uncertain.

Ensuring that the defensive line, especially the tackles, remain a strength should be a top priority this offseason. As the old adage goes, defense wins championships.

What do you think? Should the Giants, who have a multitude of needs, break the bank to retain Joseph? Who should stay and who should go in their defensive tackle rotation?